Earlier this month Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) began flight trials of the single Boeing 767-200ER it has converted to multi-mission tanker transport (MMTT) configuration for the Columbian air force (Fuerza Aérea Colombiana). During the initial 3.5-hour post-conversion flight, the MMTT successfully cleared the full flight envelope, and subsequently engaged in refueling trials with an IAI Kfir C10 fighter. IAI’s Bedek Aviation Group performed the conversion, which included a cargo conversion and addition of refueling systems. IAI has developed its own ARP3 wing pods for the tanker.

Colombia and Israel signed a trade agreement in 1989, and since that time IAI has been a major contractor to the air force, including converting of a Boeing 707 tanker and supplying Kfir fighters. Under a $150 million contract signed in 2007, IAI has upgraded Colombia’s Kfirs, the first of which was redelivered in June 2009. The latest Kfir C10 version features an Elta EL/M-2032 radar, helmet-mounted display and large multi-function displays in the cockpit.